With rainy day season in full swing, we fashion lovers sometimes face a style dilemma when it comes to finding a look that is both fierce and functional. After all, it would be a shame to ruin those recently purchased leather boots, or have brand new faux furs uncomfortably sticking to your body post downpour. Not to fear, some of the latest looks are both chic and weatherproof. Time to make it rain!

1. A raincoat with a protective layer will keep you dry and looking fabulous. Olivia Raincoat by Lily + Jae ($284), available online and at select stores in Canada.
2. A scarf will keep you warm and cozy on those dark and dreary days. Alice + Olivia Tubular Scarf (Approx. $156), available online at Shop Bop.
3. The days of the unflattering Canadian Tire rubber rain boot are over. Pick up a pair with modern details and a sleek fit. Tory Burch Buckle Rain Boot (Approx. $225), available at Tory Burch Online.
4. Go luxe in the rain with a pair of cashmere lined leather gloves. Portolano leather gloves (Approx. $125), available at Bergdorf Goodman Online.
5. A stylish umbrella is a great way to make a statement on the streets during a downpour. Bubble Umbrella (Approx. $40) at Umbrellas.net.

By: Valerie Tiu, Vancouver

Gone are the days when we Vancouverites would slip on our track jackets, yoga pants and Birkenstocks! Although our city has been renowned for our less-than-trendy fashion choices, Vancouver is growing more stylish by the second. A trip to the city’s burgeoning neighbourhoods of Gastown, Yaletown and Main Street will prove that old stereotype wrong. But don’t fret – weekend attire in Vancouver still remains cool, casual and laid-back. We have simply reserved our sporting gear for, what else? Sports. Whether you are strolling through the park, running errands or brunching with the girls this weekend, think basic pieces, easy-to-wear fabrics, layering and clean shapes.
Check out our top picks for weekend wear in Vancity:

1.The ideal dress for a weekend in the city is one that can easily transition from day to night. Try the Pezo Dress ($149) with strappy sandals for running errands, or cinched in with a belt and heels for dinner. Noir Bonbon is available at Body Politic, Life of Riley, Lord’s and Fine Finds in Vancouver.

2. What better word to describe the perfect look for weekend style than “slubby”? Pick up the Perspective Cardigan ($197) from Nicole Bridger.

3. Weekend wear is all about soft, comfy and wearable fabrics. Noir Bonbon has a great selection of basics with modern and edgy details in natural eco-friendly fibres. One of my favourites is the Nerd Top ($130) – I love the contrasting silk shoulder detail!

4. The cropped hemline and the lace detailing on the Belle Bomber ($218) by Lily + Jae are the perfect upgrade from that old hoodie. Available online at the Lily + Jae Online Shop.

5. Trade in those stretchy yoga bottoms for a great pair of relaxed shorts or pants. My pick is the Carel Shorts ($140) fromDace. The folded waistband and the rolled hemline give off a casual vibe – perfect for warmer weather! Available at Violet Boutique in Vancouver and online at the Dace Online Shop.

6. The Boudir Zippered Jumpsuit by Hidden Spectrum ($292) is relaxed, casual and cool. The exposed zipper allows you wear it alone or layered on top of a white tank. Available online at Light Vision Store and online at Hidden Spectrum Shop.

By: Valerie Tiu, Vancouver

Jean Paul Gaultier Spring 2010. Photo from style.com

Get ready to reveal a bit more than usual this Spring as your underwear becomes outerwear. The Spring 2010 runways were replete with romantic boudoir-inspired designs, and it wasn’t just steadfast lingerie lovers like Dolce & Gabbana and Jean Paul Gaultier who embraced the trend. Fashion heavyweights like Dior and Fendi also turned out plenty of delicate, barely-there threads, and the look has now gone mainstream, proving popular with fashionistas everywhere. The key to wearing this look? Less is more. Think pretty slip dresses with lingerie-inspired details like lace or corset boning, and bustier style tops layered under a blazer or cardigan. Choosing understated and feminine pieces will keep the trend looking classy, not trashy. Don’t play coy, take a cue from our picks and let your inner exhibitionist come out to play.

Left to right: Betsey Johnson Harley Corset Dress $358, Marciano Corset Dress $188, Talula Lace Bustier $55, Lily and Jae Tuesday Top $129, French Connection Bustier Dress $148, French Connection Floral Bustier $68

By: Chloe Berge